Water & Wheels opens today at Cape Harbour

March 6, 2014

The eighth annual Water and Wheels kicks off today at Cape Harbour in southwest Cape Coral.

The event, which runs through Sunday, will feature free tours on an array of vessels, from luxury yachts and sailboats, to high performance sport and leisure boats. A Classic Car Show will also be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with trophies awarded for best of show and in nine categories.

"It's been very very positive every year," Glenda Swager, event manager at Cape Harbour, said.

Last year, an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 people turned out for the event.

"The marina will be full, and even on our docks, we will have boats," she said.

There is no admission to attend.

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As of Thursday, about 85 vehicles were signed up for the car show.

"We average about 90 to 100," Swager said, noting that vehicle owners can register day of.

There is no cost to register.

Fact Box

If You Go

What

Eighth annual Water and Wheels

When

Today, March 7, to Sunday, March 9

Where

Cape Harbour,

5703 Cape Harbour Drive

The Best of Show winner will receive a trophy and a gift basket comprised of items from the Cape Harbour merchants. First, second and third place in each category will also be given trophies. The categories are: Corvette, custom, stock-restored, muscle, pro-street, truck, street rod and best paint.

Prior to the awards announcement, the Dixie Roadhouse Dancers will perform at 1 p.m.

The Charlotte Harbor Paddlers will be on hand with its Draggin' Dragons boat, and the Cape Coral Rowing Club will hold an erg-a-thon from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help raise funds for new rowing shells.

"There's going to be the Homeland Security Midnight Express Interceptor," she said.

Throughout the event, A Custom Carts will have a one-of-a-kind, custom golf cart on display.

"Saturday's the best day for the action," Swager said. "Sunday is more kicked back and you just tour the boats and listen to the music."

From 6 to 9 p.m. today, The Joint will be jumping with live music from The Juice. On Saturday, 1 South Pride will perform from 6 to 9 p.m., and the Lyons will take the stage Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.

Swager noted that the Cape Harbour restaurants and shops will be open.

"They can shop, dine at the restaurants," she said. "It's an array of things to see."

There are new storefronts, including a dog boutique and a gift shop, and the art gallery expanded.

"We have some new shops that people can check out," Swager said.

Vendors will also have booths set up at the event.

"The weather's looking perfect," she said, adding that she is hoping to exceed last year's turnout.

"This is a perfect weekend to come and experience what Cape Harbour is all about," Swager said.